This just in for Planning Commission meeting January 8th.
Verizon wants to extend a permit on agricultural land in HPP (Hawaiian Paradise Park) to construct a 150' cell tower in the next 5 years.
This is right next to a child day care center and should never have been allowed!
It looks like a power grab on the part of Verizon. They don’t really need the tower according to their coverage map. They have the permit but haven't built the tower and seek to extend their timeframe. 5 years is a big commitment! This next 5 years will see many changes.
The use permit has already been issued and they are asking for an amendment and extension to complete the facility. It is our chance to oppose the extension!
We need everyone possible to send in testimony or, better yet, show up at the meeting January 8 to testify and object to the extension.
What: Meeting of the HI County Planning Commission
When: 9 a.m., Wednesday, January 8
Where: County of Hawaii, Aupuni Center Conference Room, 101 Pauahi Street, Hilo
Subject line: Oppose Verizon Cell Tower Permit Extension
Sample Testimony for written or oral comments:
Aloha Honorable Planning Commission Chair and Commission Members,
I oppose the 5 year extension requested by Verizon for their 150' cell tower in what seems to be a strategic acquisition of land. Their coverage map shows this area already has reception. They had a chance to build the tower but didn't. Clearly, they don't need it and neither do we.
This cell tower would be right next to a preschool, Tutu and Me, which serves the community. Children are most vulnerable to the harmful effects of wireless radiation. The science is conclusive, there are harmful biological effects of wireless radiation exposure levels that are many thousands of times lower than the current allowable limits. https://scientists4wiredtech.com/what-are-4g-5g/science/
We must work one step at a time and not project too far into the future to ensure the safe and practical use of viable agricultural land. No amount of "faster downloads" could justify deaths and illnesses of the very people you are here to serve. Please deny the permit extension and the amendment and withdraw the original permit for this ill advised cell tower.
Mahalo Nui Loa,
(Your Name)
